Math Games to Build Skills and Thinking

Math Games to Build Skills and Thinking

Cathy Carter

Consultant

http://www.cmath2.com

What is “Computational Fluency”?

What is “Computational Fluency”?

“connection between conceptual understanding and computational

proficiency”(NCTM 2000, p. 35)

Conceptual Computational Understanding Proficiency Conceptual Computational Understanding Proficiency

Place value

Operational properties

Number relationships

Accurate, efficient, flexible use of computation for multiple purposes

. . .regular experience with meaningful procedures so students develop and draw on mathematical understanding even as they cultivate computational proficiency.

Balance and connection of understanding and proficiency are essential, particularly for computation to be useful in “comprehending” problem-solving situations.

BenefitsBenefits

Should be central part of mathematics curriculumEngaging opportunities for practiceEncourages strategic mathematical thinkingEncourages efficiency in computationDevelops familiarity with number system and compatible numbers (landmark)Provides home school connection

Where’s the Math?Where’s the Math?

What mathematical ideas or understanding does this game promote?

What mathematics is involved in effective strategies for playing this game?

What numerical understanding is involved in scoring this game?

How much of the game is luck or mathematical skill?

Games Require ReflectionGames Require Reflection

Games need to be seen as a learning experience

Where’s the Math?Where’s the Math?

What is the goal of the game? Post this for students.Ask mathematical questions and have students write responses.Model the game first, along with mathematical thinkingEncourage cooperation, not competitionShare the game and mathematical goals with parents

ExtensionsExtensions

Have students create rules or different versions of the games

Require students to test out the games, explain and justify revisions based on fairness, mathematical reasoning

PigPig

Jeopardy Dice Game

Why is it classified as a “Jeopardy” game?

Goals for PigGoals for Pig

Practice mental math or paper/pencil addition (multiplication)

Suggest and test strategies to win

What math knowledge is helpful to come up with winning strategies?

Games websitesGames websites

www.mathwire.comhttp://childparenting.about.com/od/makeathomemathgames/http://www.netrover.com/~kingskid/Math/math.htmhttp://www.multiplication.com/classroom_games.htmhttp://www.awesomelibrary.org/Classroom/Mathematics/Mathematics.htmlhttp://www.primarygames.co.uk/http://www.pbs.org/teachers/math/